Where in the world is the most fun in the shortest distance on St. Patrick's Day? Why Hot Springs, Arkansas of course.
We love a parade -- and anything world's shortest, longest, biggest, or smallest. So bright and early on March 17th, we motored into the heart of "The Valley of The Vapors" and staked a claim on a spot to watch the compacted cavalcade.
Unlike some St. Paddy's Day processions, this one is always held on March 17th, and every year it's the First Ever #th Annual World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade (This year will mark the First Ever 12th Annual World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade).
Hot Springs really decks out for the occasion, dying the famous fountains of healing waters kelly green.
Historic Bridge Street, America's shortest street in daily use --according to Ripley's Believe It Or Not -- was cordoned off and ready. The entire route covers a mere ninety-eight feet.
The course may be small but the event sure isn't. Tens of thousands of revelers line the tiny boulevard to welcome the numerous local dignitaries, Shriners, bikers, bands and babies in “Kiss Me I'm Irish” shirts.
All of that was just a warm up for the big guns. The crowd really got All Shook Up when a couple of dozen Kings of Rock & Roll took to the street as the International Order of Irish Elvi.
WATCH: The party comes alive - Elvis-style - with the International Order of Irish Elvi!
Hard to believe, but once Elvis had left the building, it wasn't the finale.
Each year a fabulous celebrity Grand Marshal finishes off the procession. Last year's honoree was Bo Derek, who showed everyone that she's still a 10.
Previous participants have been John Ratzenberger (Cliff Clayborn from Cheers), Pauly Shore, and George Wendt (NORM! from Cheers), and Jim Belushi.
Afterward, a band takes the stage at the end of Bridge Street, segueing the parade into a street party/ pub crawl before the last piece of candy gets snagged by a kid.
We decided to join the crowds in a libation or two at some of the local watering holes, with one strict rule, we would drink nothing green.
David and Veronica James, GypsyNester.com
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